MARTIN MAWAYA
The Gweru community has commended the City of Gweru for appointing the youth into key decision-making positions, adding that young people can bring new perspectives, enhance policy development and strengthen the city’s governance.
The praise comes after the local authority announced the appointment of Joseph Zimusi as the new Director of Housing and Community Services.
Zimusi (37) succeeded former Housing Director, Shingirayi Tigere, who was fired for criminal abuse of office and his case is still pending at the Gweru Magistrates Court.
“The city’s decision to appoint a youthful leader to this key position reflects the local authority’s commitment to nurturing talent and fostering fresh perspectives in local government management.
“Zimusi is a local person, with extensive knowledge of the council’s inner workings, he is well-positioned to lead effectively,” said Brian Dube, a former Gweru Urban legislature and human rights lawyer.
Dube described Zimusi as a qualified and competent officer who will benefit from support within the department and from the community.
He noted that his leadership of the Gweru Away team, a coalition of local social clubs, including Yakanaka Mota, Busters, Gweru Sharks, Hustlers and Gweru Legends, demonstrates his capability as a community leader.
Gweru Residents and Ratepayers Association (GRRA) Executive Director Cornilia Selipiwe said the appointment will motivate other council employees to work hard and strive for leadership positions.
He lamented the practice of hiring council directors from outside the province, arguing that it undermines the devolution agenda.
Additionally, Selipiwe noted that “most directors employed from outside sometimes fail to comprehend the community’s needs or foster relationships with residents.”
However, the GRRA team leader praised Zimusi for rising through the ranks within the organization stating that “he possesses the qualities necessary to lead the department effectively.”
The city of progress emphasized that the new housing director’s leadership skills will enhance housing and community services in Gweru.
“The City of Gweru is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. J Zimusi as the Director of Housing and Community Services. We extend our best wishes to Mr. Zimusi in his new role and look forward to his leadership and contributions to the city. The public is kindly informed of this appointment, and we anticipate his dedication to enhancing housing and community services in Gweru,” reads the statement from council’s public relations and communications office.
Zimusi holds a Master’s Degree in Business Administration (MBA), a Master’s Degree in Human Resource Management, an Honours Degree in Local Governance Studies, a Diploma in Human Resource Management, and a Certificate in Labour Law, Conciliation and Arbitration.
He is also an associate member of the Institute of People Management of Zimbabwe (IPMZ).
Prior to his appointment, Zimusi served in various roles at the City of Gweru, including an Administrative Officer in the Chamber Secretary’s Department, a Human Resource Officer, a Housing Superintendent, and most recently, as the Human Resources Manager.
